Energized by midterms, officials explore options ranging from bigger premium subsidies to a public option on state exchanges

Democratic-led states and cities are moving swiftly to push expanded public health-care proposals following their November midterm victories, drawing criticism from some Republicans and spurring debate over the potential high costs.

Since the new year, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who took office this week, has proposed health coverage for more undocumented immigrants and advocated bigger premium subsidies, while saying he will seek federal authority to pursue a state single-payer plan.